Verte
Chevithorne, Devon, UK
A spectacularly grown-up treehouse hidden within Devon’s Chevithorne Barton estate, Verte blends into its sylvan glade setting with simple modern elegance. Sweeping into view on approach, yet tall and broad when looking back from the front, this RIBA award winner holds a unique shape all of its own; filled with light and at one with the birds singing from the surrounding branches. Here lies a luxury self-catering escape that will reset the soul.
Introduction
Built in symphony with the land, Verte fans out in an angular display of larch cladding from the hill on which it sits. Inside, a cathedral-like space celebrating nature and togetherness awaits, while up and down the spalted staircases, four peaceful bedrooms promise escapism. The family-owned Chevithorne Barton estate in which this luxury self-catering home resides acts as a living legacy to the owner’s father and houses a world-famous oak collection; enjoy wanders through its spring magnolias and autumnal blaze of colour on its select open days.
Inside
The open-plan living space is the hub of this magnificent dwelling, with wraparound windows peering into the nests which too have made home within the tangle of leaves. Gentle, dappled sunshine floods through on spring mornings, tempting long breakfasts on the large dining table carved from timber found on the estate. In brisker months, the modern, circular fireplace takes centre stage, crackling with comfort as the early evening darkness envelops and hoot of owls echoes between the trees.
Outside
Wildflower meadows, a woodfired hot tub, tree swings and two rowing lakes connected via a waterfall all lend themselves to some well-deserved recreation. Cool toes in the water during summer heat, engage in a family game of football on the flat lawn or simply lay beneath dappled light with a good book as the sun journeys across the sky. Further afield, Exmoor National Park promises long hikes over tors and through ravines, dips in gentle rivers and a dramatic coastline dotted with high cliffs and cosy thatched tearooms.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 10 guests (6 adults and 4 children)
From £3,795 per week, £2,995 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 6 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are four bedrooms spread over two floors. The lower ground floor includes one bedroom with zip-and-link bed and en suite shower room and one bedroom with super king-size bed. On the first floor there is one bedroom with king-size bed, in-room freestanding bath and en suite shower room, and one double bunk room. Both the first and lower ground floors include family bathrooms.
View bedrooms - FeaturesWood-fired hot tub, large flat lawn for croquet, football and badminton
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome, or three on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One cot and highchair are available on request.
- PracticalitiesThere is private parking for up to six vehicles by the house. The kitchen includes a Range cooker and electric hob, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and microwave. There is a separate utility room which includes a second freezer, washing machine and tumble dryer. The access track to the property is bumpy and steep and therefore unsuitable for low-slung cars. Please note, at the very bottom of the garden there is shared access to the neighbouring field. The gardener tends to the grounds on a Thursday but should not disrupt your stay, likewise, the resident ducks are fed each morning and evening via the gate at the bottom of the garden. Due to the unfenced ponds, children and pets must be supervised in the garden at all times. If arriving by air, helicopters are welcome to land on the grounds with prior permission.
- Homestay includesLuxury hamper of local produce, Apple TV, Sonos sound system, Raclette grill, WiFi internet, Green Egg barbecue, football posts...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Eco-friendlyWater from natural springs, geothermal heating system and solar panels
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Please note, availability for this property is to be confirmed by Unique Homestays on receipt of your enquiry
Chevithorne
Sat between Exmoor National Park and the Blackdown Hills AONB, this quaint Devon village is perfectly placed for long coastal hikes, wild swims and stargazing, not forgetting sampling the very best of the Southwest´s famed gastro pubs, of course.
Getting there
- On the Map Verte sits within the peaceful Devon village of Chevithorne near Tiverton in Devon, between Exmoor National Park and the Blackdown Hills AONB.
- By Car This unique modern home is approximately three and a half hours drive from central London and one and a half from Bristol.
- By Train Tiverton Parkway, with regular services to London and the rest of the country, is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the house.
- By Air Exeter Airport is a 30-minute drive away and Bristol Airport is just over an hour away. Helicopters are welcome to land on the lawn on prior request.
From the owner
“We hope to have struck the balance between elegance and fun, as it is first and foremost a much-loved home where we regularly welcome friends and family to relax and unwind.”
The house was built between 2015 and 2018, and although there were some testing times during its construction, we feel the final result was very much worth the challenges we encountered along the way.
Verte won the RIBA South West Award in 2019 and was shortlisted for RIBA House of the Year that same year. The house is made entirely of wood, save for the steel piles which allow it to rest on the hill upon which it was built. It is entirely clad in larch, all sourced from the surrounding estate, and the large table which forms the centrepiece in the main living area was made from a beech tree that fell in a storm and was given to us by Jess' father. This same beech tree was also used to construct the stairs using a process called "spalting" which creates an extraordinary pattern in the wood.
The house is built on the Chevithorne Barton Estate, home to the world-famous oak collection started by Jess´ family. We have extended the collection into the land around the house and we hope you can find tranquillity in this slice of Devonshire heaven.
The Green Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Chevithorne with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Knightshayes Court, Tiverton
Looked after by the National Trust, this Victorian house and extensive parkland showcases Gothic Revival architecture, an impressive walled garden and acres upon acres of gentle strolls for the whole family to enjoy.
To See
Wellington Monument
A striking landmark on the edge of the Blackdown Hills AONB, the hills surrounding the Wellington Monument offer stunning dog walks, along with cool woodland wanders where children can tree climb, play Pooh sticks and paddle in river shallows.
To Eat
The Masons Arms, Knowstone
A thatched 13th century inn on the edge of Exmoor National Park that is well worth the 14-mile drive. Proud of their one Michelin Star, owners Mark and Sarah Dodson serve up fresh seasonal food and a complementary wine list.
To See
Tarr Steps, Dulverton
A medieval clapper bridge crossing the River Barle with plenty of enchanting woodland walks surrounding. The Tarr Farm Inn, which you´ll pass on the way to the steps, is an excellent spot for a sunny tipple after a walk.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Verte is a truly unique, utterly charming and magical property. We absolutely loved the design and location, the trees, the large windows, the coziness and the wood! The house manager was an excellent commutator, extremely helpful and knowledgeable and very welcoming.
We loved the location, style and whole layout of the property which was perfect for a long weekend with friends as everyone also had their own space. The house was amazing.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024
Collections > Luxury Christmas Breaks > UK > Devon > Chevithorne > Verte
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
